Delaware Gaming Bill Signed into Law

Delaware Governor Jack Markell signed the Delaware Gaming Competitiveness Act of 2012 this past week, granting the authority for online betting in the state. The casino games online bill passed through the state Senate, however, not without issue as a Democratic Senator who intended to vote in opposition for the legislation voted in favor.

The lawmaker, Senator Robert Venables of Laurel, stated that he thought he was voting for an amendment and not the actual bill. He may try to withdraw his vote, but because Governor Markell already signed the bill, it may be too late.

Delaware has become the first state to legally pass legislation for online casino games.

Many citizens of the state came to the support the bill as it became evident that competition from neighboring Maryland and Pennsylvania casinos was causing a loss of revenue within the state.

Governor Markell stated, “We’re talking about a couple thousand jobs. The competitive landscape for this industry has changed dramatically.”

Limitations from federal law will only allow players to make bets within the state borders. In order to ensure compliance and that all betting is done legally, the state will implement geo location software.

Because of federal law, players can only place bets within Delaware’s borders. In an effort to monitor this, the state will utilize geo location software.

The state is setting itself up to launch online casino games in the best online casinos by 2013. Players will also be able to use their smartphones and tablets as well.